"I started my business in 2004 in my home," says Dionne, who purchased the Concord store (A Day To Remember Bridal Boutique) in 2007 and opened the newer Uniquely Couture location in Bedford in 2012.

According to Dionne, her own personal experience with buying a wedding dress were the basis for striking out on her own. "I had just gotten married the year before I started my business and I had a horrible experience at David's Bridal,” says Dionne. “However, I had a wonderful experience at a small bridal boutique in New Hampshire. The owner of that boutique encouraged me to start my own bridal business and helped me get started by introducing me to various vendors. I got into the business because I wanted to be a part of a bride's journey to the alter, and offer an exciting and enjoyable shopping experience."

Although there are many places to find a wedding dress without leaving the borders of the Granite State, the personal touch is what sets both Uniquely Couture Bridal and A Day To Remember Bridal Boutique apart from chain stores that typically offer a smaller selection of dresses.

"We have two boutiques offering completely different designers and price points,” says Dionne. "None of our merchandise is behind closed doors. When brides come into one of our stores, they can ‘shop’ for their gown, as all of our merchandise is out on the floor for customers to peruse. Our experienced consultants work one-on-one with each bride in the selection of gowns to try on."

Since both boutiques offer a large variety of dresses, which all visible in the store, the opportunity to find "the one" is much easier. With eight team members at each location, the boutiques give each bride-to-be individual, expert attention to insure quality service, since creating a memorable shopping experience is one of Dionne's highest customer service priorities.

"Shopping for a wedding gown can be extremely overwhelming,” says Dionne. "As consultants, our goal is to fulfill the vision each bride has for her big day. The wedding dress sets the stage for a variety of decisions brides must make in their journey."

The style of dresses run from bohemian and traditional ball gowns to vintage lace and sleek-and-sexy styles, making both locations unique in their own ways. Just as each store has its own individual style, as do both websites.

"So happy I dropped in! My mom, sister and I made an appointment at A Day To Remember on a whim. We had assumed we would shop for my dress somewhere in NYC, where I lived. But since I was home in NH visiting family and my fiancé, and I would be getting married in the following summer back in NH, we thought we'd just see what they had. I'm so glad we went! I ended up buying the first dress I tried on (though Jill and Katt took the time to let me try about 10 other dresses, just so I could be sure I'd found the one). Professional, yet warm and personable, I felt in good hands with the staff at the store. They were also very kind and patient with us as we took our time to figure out the groom's and groomsmen's outfits and kept calling back to ask questions: 'what time were we supposed to pick things up again? Do you guys have studs?' The store was organized and on time with everything, and very reassuring throughout the whole process. We also ended up loving the woman they recommended to have the dress altered, Susana's Sewing Studio, around the corner. I would highly recommend A Day To Remember to any one looking to get married!" – Anonymous 11/22/2015

"Once I stepped into Uniquely Couture, I knew I was going to find my perfect dress there. UC is absolutely beautiful inside and everyone who worked there was friendly and accommodating, not pushy at all. Rachel was my consultant and she was amazing. First, she gave me a tour of the place and showed me all of the gowns available. I liked that I was able to see all the gowns and really be able to see if it was something I would like or not. She really listened to what I was looking for and found the perfect dress for me. While many of the dresses were over my budget, I was able to find my dream dress that was actually just below my budget range. I am so happy with my experience at UC and will be telling all my friends and family about it! -Katy 10/28/2012

If you are newly engaged and looking for a more personal way to find your dream dress, then be sure to visit Uniquely Couture Bridal and A Day To Remember Bridal Boutique. Both stores can be contacted by phone at (603) 637-2037, or via appointment booking at uniquelycouturebridal.com.